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Psyllium seed powder and whole psyllium seed -- also called whole psyllium husk -- are both produced from the Plantago ovata plant. The fiber found in the powder and the husks swells up when it comes into contact with liquids, creating a gelatin that aids with digestion and moving waste through your system. The powder is made by grinding the husks down so the gel produced is finer and has less of a grainy texture. If you are adding psyllium to foods, the powder may be a better choice because of its finer texture, but both forms of psyllium will provide the same health benefits.

Forms of Psyllium

Psyllium seed powder is made by grinding down psyllium husks into a fine dust with a spice grinder. You can also find it preground, most commonly in the form of a capsule supplement, or as granules, liquid or a wafer, all of which can help treat constipation. A 1-tablespoon serving of psyllium powder contains 30 calories while a tablespoon of whole psyllium husks contains only about 18 calories. Both forms contain a negligible amount of protein and only trace essential vitamins or minerals.

Dietary Fiber Content

Both psyllium powder and psyllium husk are high in dietary fiber, but the powder provides twice the amount. Psyllium seed powder has 7 grams of fiber per 1-tablespoon serving and the husk provides 3.5 grams per tablespoon. Because psyllium is so high in dietary fiber, it not only helps with constipation, it can also help you feel fuller with less food. A diet high in fiber can also decrease your risk of heart disease.

Additives and Ease of Use

Psyllium husks do not contain additives, while psyllium powder capsules often contain small amounts of additives. However, since psyllium powder in capsules is easier to carry around, this may make the powder a better choice for you if you choose to consume the dietary supplement throughout the day. Consuming smaller amounts of psyllium throughout the day may reduce the amount of bloating or gas you experience, as your body may process smaller amounts of fiber more easily. Psyllium can also delay the absorption of some medications, so you may only be able to take it at certain times throughout the day -- either one hour before or two to four hours after taking any medication.

Texture and Cooking With Psyllium

Psyllium husk, when mixed with fluids, can produce a grainy texture, which may be unappealing if you are mixing it into juices, smoothies, soups, stews or pureed foods. In these cases, consider grinding the husks down to a powder to create a finer, smoother texture in your finished product. However, for baked goods or to use as a binder for dishes such as meatloaf or burgers, the texture of the husks will not be a problem.

Tips for Consuming and Side Effects

Both psyllium powder and husk need to be mixed with enough water. Not enough water can cause constipation as well as pain in your digestive tract as the fiber becomes hard and difficult to pass. Drink a minimum of six to eight glasses of water throughout the day to ensure you stay properly hydrated. Because psyllium can affect certain medications, consult with your doctor before taking any psyllium supplements and to get an appropriate dosage.

About the Author

Marie Dannie has been a professional journalist since 1991, specializing in nutrition and health topics. She has written for "Woman’s Own," the "Daily Mail," the "Daily Mirror" and the "Telegraph." She is a registered nutritionist and holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in food science from the University of Nottingham.